Virgil van Dijk says he's 'incredibly proud' after seeing 'very special' announcement

Virgil van Dijk is a leader both on and off the pitch, with his legacy set to live on forever.

The Reds have been blessed with some incredible leaders during their time, with captaining this club being one of the greatest honours in football.

Steven Gerrard wore it with pride for so many years, then Jordan Henderson proved why he was deserving of it, and now van Dijk has done exactly the same.

The Dutchman is a stalwart at the back for Liverpool and plays every game if he physically is able to, with no one having a bad word to say about him.

This is not just at Liverpool, but at old clubs too, with one in particular showing just how special he is to them after revealing a very touching tribute.

Willem II name academy stand after Virgil van Dijk

When players keep their old clubs close to their hearts, it tells a lot about the individual, but the same can be said when it is the other way around too.

Players who never forget their roots are also ones who deserve to be where they are today, and van Dijk is certainly one of these.

He regularly speaks highly of his time in the academy at Willem II, where the defender learnt his trade before moving to Groningen.

MORE LIVERPOOL STORIES

And now, they have shown their appreciation for their former player by unveiling a stand that is named after the Liverpool captain, a special tribute for a special person.

Van Dijk was present during the unveiling, with the 34-year-old admitting that it means a great deal to him and his family.

“It makes me incredibly proud that the stands at the youth academy are named after me,” he said on the Willem II official website.

READ MORE: Liverpool look like they have finally decided a brilliant plan on how to replace Mohamed Salah

“Willem II played an important role in my life and in my development as a young player. That this is now being recognized in this way means a great deal to me and my family.

“It’s a very special tribute, and I appreciate the warmth and connection I still feel with the club.”

Virgil van Dijk to inspire the next generation

Every kid has footballing idols and van Dijk will certainly be one of these to many children around the world, but especially in the Netherlands.

This stand will only mean his legacy lives on even longer, with the Willem II academy director, Merijn Goris, highlighting just how admired he is.

“Virgil means so much to Willem II and to our youth academy,” he said.

“We wanted to give him something lasting. This tribute isn’t just a thank you for bringing back the international youth tournament, but it should also inspire our youth players.

“Virgil is the perfect example of what hard work and perseverance can lead to. With this tribute, we show our youth players that dreams are achievable.”

Click here to read article